Rowell Mendoza Nieve

Rowell Mendoza Nieve, 81, of LaPlace, Louisiana, blossomed into eternal life on May 15, 2025, surrounded by those he cherished. Born on July 28, 1943, in Medicion, Imus City, Cavite, Philippines, Rowell grew into a man of many talents and passions, each shared generously with those around him. Educated with distinction at San Sebastian College – Recoletos de Cavite, Rowell graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude, setting the stage for a lifetime of nurturing hearts and minds alike. A revered teacher of high school English, his classroom was a space of encouragement and growth, first in the Philippines and later at a parochial high school in New Orleans. In 1978, Rowell made a significant transition, immigrating to the United States with former wife, Esmee Aspuria. In Louisiana, he fulfilled an array of roles, including his work as a Pharmacy Technician at Ochsner in New Orleans and East Jefferson General Hospital in Metairie, with kindness and diligence. Rowell’s passion for music, avid reading, and dramatic arts flourished throughout his life. A longtime member of church parish choirs and the Jefferson Performing Arts Society, he celebrated life through song. His love for nature was evident in his vibrant gardens, where every plant told a story of hope, love, and resilience. His linguistic prowess spanned several languages, including Tagalog, Spanish, English, and native Filipino dialects. His multilingual abilities and appreciation for cultural diversity broadened his circle of influence and friendships. Rowell was known for his humorous charm, stylish appearance, and mastery of Filipino cuisine. His spirit of hospitality and generosity touched many lives, his heart always open to those in need. Rowell is survived by his sons, Philamer Joseph Nieve and Frederick Anthony Nieve, and their mother Esmee Aspuria; sister, Maria Elena Nieve Hayag; brother, Lorenzo Mendoza Nieve; his grandchildren, Alizah Marie Nieve and Lyric Elijah Nieve; his nephews, Roberto A. Nieve and family, Avelino A. Nieve, Jr. and family, Elerico N. Hayag and family, John Anthony N. Hayag and family, Engelbert Aspuria and family, Paul Joseph Aspuria and family, Jonathan Aspuria and family, Kenneth Lavigne, Jr. and family, Patrick Joseph Serrano, Aaron Serrano and family, and Richard Flood and family; his nieces, Julita A. Nieve, Mary Grace H. Cuevas and family, Josephine Aspuria and family, Aileen Flores and family, Tessa Ellis and family, Arlene Serrano and family, Shiley Brown and family, Elizabeth Davis and family, and Leilani Aspuria and family. Preceding him in death are his parents, Leoncio Masusi Nieve and Lorenza Flores Mendoza Nieve. A visitation and Celebration of Life service will honor Rowell on May 31, from 2-5 p.m., at L.A. Muhleisen & Son Funeral Home in Kenner, LA. Rowell’s legacy will endure through the melodies he sang, the friendships he kindled, and his enduring advice: “Trust in God, always pray, and tend the garden of your heart.”

Tributes

Rowell Mendoza Nieve

July 28, 1943 - May 15, 2025